Having a voice in the future

Joyce Toub, Collier/Lee Hadassah President

In the most recent Hadassah magazine, there was an article about how philanthropy creates a lasting impact during our own lifetimes. I know that for some of you, when you hear “Hadassah,” you immediately think that we are always asking for money. Well, of course we are. We are the ones raising the funds that run the hospital! We are the ones behind the administration that chooses the doctors, purchases the equipment, does the research and outreach, educates and advises, and so on.

By no means am I a mega philanthropist, but what I can donate and contribute makes me feel I have a stake in the outcome, a voice in how we can provide a better future for all. Investing your time, experience and vision allows you to grow and make personal connections you otherwise would not have made. You set an example for your children and grandchildren, to care about a community, a country, the world.

There are many giving opportunities, so please don’t overlook them. Our upcoming programs will engage, entertain and educate you for only a modest contribution.

On Oct. 7, Collier/Lee Hadassah will present a Blue Box event that commemorates a practice that began in 1901 — small tin boxes were distributed to Jewish communities across the globe, eventually numbering over 1,000,000 by WW Il. These JNF (Jewish National Fund) boxes have helped to develop and cultivate the land of Israel and continues to do so.

JNF is responsible for the greening of the desert, building parks, creating new communities, bolstering the water supply, helping develop innovative area agricultural techniques and educating both young and old about the importance of Israel and Zionism.

On Oct. 25, we will present a joint program with Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. Dina Kraft, based in Tel Aviv, will highlight two episodes of her podcast, “The Branch,” sponsored by Hadassah.

Kraft has been a long-time foreign correspondent, reporting for The Associated Press and has written for The New York Times and Los Angeles Times. In 2020, she received the B’nai B’rith World Center Jerusalem award for Journalism. Kraft gives voice to Palestinian/ Israeli friendships. Her podcasts tell the story of different pairs working together, from peace activists on the Gaza-Israeli border to a soccer captain and coach in the Galilee.

Please watch for our e-blasts and join us! Help us kick off the New Year with a greater involvement to benefit others!